Choosing a Breed

The most pleasurable step in selecting a new puppy is choosing a breed. The CKC recognizes 175 breeds, which are sorted into seven groups. "Listed" breeds are in the process of gaining full CKC recognition. Each breed has their own unique natural instincts and characteristics. So do some research and narrow your choices down to two or three breeds suited to your lifestyle, then get as much information as you can before making a final choice.

Most importantly, you will need to experience your selected breed first hand. You can visit one of the many CKC events held throughout Canada each year to experience the dogs without any commitment. While there, chat with the owners and breeders. People are generally willing to provide information and give you the firsthand experience you may need. A CKC Calendar of Events is posted on our website or you can call 416-674-3699.

One advantage of purebred dogs is that the qualities of each generation (size, coat, temperament, etc.) are passed on to the next. All breeds are different, however, so consider the following from the point of view of a mature dog when developing your short list:

Allergies

Hound breeds are split into two factions – those long-limbed canines that hunt by sight (aptly enough referred to as sighthounds or, occasionally, gazehounds) and those that hunt by scent, not surprisingly called scent hounds.

When a breed didn’t quite seem to fit in any other group, it became part of the Non-Sporting crew. The varied group includes three bull breeds, a number of Spitz breeds, three Tibetan breeds, three Poodle varieties, and more.

These breeds have a job to do. Some pull sleds or carts while others guard livestock, homes, businesses or military installations.

The Canadian Kennel Club is a national, member-based non-profit organization, incorporated under the Animal Pedigree Act of Canada. It provides registry services for all purebred dogs it officially recognizes. Provides governance for all CKC approved dog shows, dog trials and canine events. Finally, the CKC is a communication organization informing all people interested in dogs.